Makaphalika

(Indian Senna)
Sanskrit: स्वर्णपत्री • Botanical: Cassia angustifolia Vahl

Senna (Cassia angustifolia) is described as an important purgative herb. It is known as Svaranpatri and Sanay in Indian medicine. The leaves and pods are the medicinal parts. It produces reliable purgation and is widely used for constipation. The text mentions it grows well in Rajasthan and Southern India. Alexandrian Senna (C. acutifolia Delile) and Italian Senna (C. obovata) are also mentioned as related species. It is listed in British Pharmacopoeia. The leaves contain sennosides as the primary active components. Verse: 276-278. The decoction is made with 6-10 leaves steeped overnight for purgation. Dose: 1-2 tola leaves for decoction.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu), Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Rhein C14H8O5, Aloe-emodin C15H10O5, Kaempferin, Isorhamnetin, Myricyl alcohol, Phytosterolin
Also Known As
English: Indian Senna, Tinnevelly Senna
Sanskrit: स्वर्णपत्री, मार्कण्डिका
Hindi: सनाय, सोनामुखी

What is Makaphalika (Senna / सनाय)?

Senna (Cassia angustifolia) is described as an important purgative herb. It is known as Svaranpatri and Sanay in Indian medicine. The leaves and pods are the medicinal parts. It produces reliable purgation and is widely used for constipation. The text mentions it grows well in Rajasthan and Southern India. Alexandrian Senna (C. acutifolia Delile) and Italian Senna (C. obovata) are also mentioned as related species. It is listed in British Pharmacopoeia. The leaves contain sennosides as the primary active components. Verse: 276-278. The decoction is made with 6-10 leaves steeped overnight for purgation. Dose: 1-2 tola leaves for decoction.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Virechana (purgative)
  • Rechana (laxative)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Vatanulomana (regulates Vata)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.